Waste pickers play an essential role in collection of packages. Their work contributes to transforming used beverage cartons into valuable resources. We are dedicated to ensuring safe and decent working conditions for them across our recycling value chain.
Why prioritising waste workers’ welfare matters
In today's world, where environmental sustainability is paramount, workers in the collection and recycling of packaging play a crucial role in securing a sustainable future1. However, they often face significant challenges and vulnerabilities. That’s why it is essential to prioritise their safety and well-being by providing them with safe and decent working conditions. By respecting the rights of waste workers, we not only strengthen the capacity for collection, sorting and recycling, but we also uphold our promise to protect what’s good: food, people and the planet.
Developing action plans for informal waste collectors
We have mapped our collection and recycling value chain and assessed the risks to people. As a next step, we will develop market specific action plans in pilot countries, including through engagement with informal waste collection workers.
By respecting collection and recycling workers' rights, we aim to help improve their income and livelihoods, protect them in high-risk environments and give them a say in the future of collection and recycling systems. We are already working with stakeholders to create an environment where informal waste pickers in collection systems can work and live with dignity.
Respecting workers rights in collection and recycling of packaging
We work locally to activate, accelerate and transform the collection and recycling sector with a dedicated team of professionals who work with recyclers, local authorities and customers to advise them on efficient collection and sorting systems and invest with industrial partners in the recycling value chain. As part of this effort, we look for new ways to develop safe and decent working conditions for people throughout the recycling value chain.
Related links
1Sustainable future refers to development that requires an integrated approach that considers environmental concerns along with economic development. Source: un.org/en/academic-impact/sustainability